Firefighting Gloves

What Is Firefighting Gloves?

Structural firefighting gloves are multi-layer protective gloves certified as part of the NFPA 1970 structural firefighting ensemble. Their design balances thermal protection, flame resistance, liquid and physical protection, grip, and the dexterity needed to operate hose appliances, radios, SCBA controls, and hand tools. Performance is established through standardized certification testing rather than a simple maximum-temperature rating.

Why Firefighting Gloves Matters on the Fireground

Hands are the most frequently burned body part in structural firefighting because firefighters use them to feel for heat, handle hot tools, and brace against superheated surfaces in zero visibility. Gloves that are too thick sacrifice the dexterity needed to operate SCBA controls or call a Mayday on a radio, while gloves that are too thin transmit heat that causes contact burns.

Relevant NFPA Standards

• NFPA 1970: Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural and Proximity Firefighting, Work Apparel, Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) for Emergency Services, and Personal Alert Safety Systems (PASS)
• NFPA 1850: Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural and Proximity Firefighting and Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)

Field Procedures & Tactical Steps

1. Inspect gloves for holes, worn seams, stiff or cracked leather, and compressed thermal liner before each use.
2. Tuck coat wristlets inside the glove gauntlet to create a continuous thermal barrier with no exposed skin.
3. Periodically check glove condition during interior operations — if excessive heat is felt through the gloves, conditions may be beyond tenable limits.
4. After exposure, wash gloves per NFPA 1850 guidelines to remove carcinogenic soot and combustion byproducts.
5. Replace gloves immediately if the moisture barrier is compromised (water soaks through to the hand during use).

Common Context & Application

Worn on every structural firefighting operation and any incident involving heat, sharp objects, or hazardous liquids. Gloves are the last PPE element donned (after coat wristlets are in place).

Frequently Asked Questions about Firefighting Gloves